Chicago, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 100 vs 137

$1,380/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 33%

$75,134/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 13%

$315,200 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 52%

$1,502/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 19%

2,707,648

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $462/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $5,544/year.

Median household income is $9,483/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Chicago or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $462/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $9,483/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Chicago

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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